The Shambhala Dictionary of Buddhism and Zen

by Shambhala Publications

With over fifteen hundred entries and forty-six illustrations, The Shambhala Dictionary of Buddhism and Zen is the most complete compact reference work of its kind available in the English language. It is designed not only for students and meditators but also as a took to help familiarize all readers with Buddhist terms and concepts—such as chakra, karma, koan, nirvana, and tantra—that are encountered with increasing regularity in the literature of a wide range of fields today. The lives and teachings of important philosophers and meditation masters, the variety of practices, the basic texts and scriptures, and the range of sects and schools of thought are among the subjects covered. Pronunciation tables, a comprehensive bibliography, and a Ch'an/Zen lineage chart are also provided.

Genres: Buddhism, Zen, Reference, Philosophy, Religion

280 pages, Paperback

First published November 26, 1991

Reviews

[Lindsay Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the very best dictionaries of Buddhist spiritual and philosophical terms to date. It is particularly valuable to students of the original Sanskrit or Pali terms. While it also include Tibetan, Chinese, and Japanese terminology, I believe its greatest value is to the Sanskrit scholar. My only complaint is that the book should come out in a new edition that greatly expands the number of terms included.

[Paul Forste · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, yeah, I know, why include reference works? But like I said, I'm a show off. This was a gift to me from my son Andrew, perhaps a decade ago (2000). I love it. I'm frequently in it.

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Indispensible

[James Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though it is not comprehensive, and much of the source material is out of date, this book remains an excellent resource for those new to exploring Buddhism.